HAVING a sandwich for lunch today? It might surprise you to hear Embarrassing Bodies TV star Doctor Dawn Harper claims bread will hel you get a bikini body.

The 52-year-old British doctor, media personality and television presenter is promoting the use of bread after years of scaremongering from dieticians and D-list celebrities.

New research has shown less than a third of young women feel bread is an essential part of their diet – with nearly 50 per cent admitting to feeling guilty when they eat it.

More shocking than the unnecessary guilt of eating something in moderation, is that 60 per cent of 18-35 year old women are currently following – or have previously tried – a restrictive diet, with half choosing to cut or reduce carbs.

Those who admitted to cutting bread out of their diet, however, admitted they continued to eat less healthy options like wine, crisps and chips - begging the question, what is the point?

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New research has shown less than a third of young women feel bread is an essential part of their die

Doctor Dawn said: "Interestingly, the research also shows only 9% of young women agree bread is good for providing low fat carbs needed for exercise.

"Carbohydrates are essential for providing energy - our bodies cannot function without them and bread is a healthy source of carbs as it is low fat, low sugar and high in fibre."

She added: "If you are looking to shape up for summer the right carbs like bread can absolutely help - fuelling your body correctly and keeping you fuller for longer so you are less likely to reach for sugary treats.

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Those who admitted to cutting bread out of their diet admitted they continued to eat crisps and wine

"There is no such thing as a bad food but there are plenty of bad diets. It’s all about balance and portion control."

Our YouGov research - undertaken by the Federation of Bakers and the Flour Advisory Bureau - also showed less than a third of young women feel bread is an essential part of their diet and 45 per cent of those surveyed admitted to feeling guilty when eating bread.

It's time to banish the bread guilt and chow down on a thick wedge of the yeasty stuff this lunchtime - especially if it will help that summer body.